March is a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the people who bring compassion and connection into some of life’s most meaningful moments.
Across the country—and around the world on March 17, World Social Work Day—we recognize the extraordinary impact of social workers. In skilled nursing and long-term care communities, their role is both profound and deeply personal. They are the steady presence during transitions, the compassionate guide through uncertainty, and the advocate ensuring every voice is heard.
The Heart of Person-Centered Care
In skilled nursing, Social Workers and Social Services Designees do far more than coordinate services or complete care plans. They walk alongside residents and families during pivotal life transitions—moments that require not just expertise, but empathy.
Their work embodies Mission Health’s CARES values—Character, Attitude, Respect, Excellence, and Service—in ways that are both visible and deeply felt.
They help residents adjust to new environments, support families through complex decisions, and champion the emotional and psychosocial well-being of every individual in their care. Often working quietly behind the scenes, they become trusted partners—bridging communication, strengthening care teams, and bringing humanity into healthcare.
As Beth Gifford, Mission Health Director of Social Services and Behavioral Health, beautifully shares:
“The relationships our social workers build are the heart of what we do. Because of them, our residents feel supported, families feel reassured, and our interdisciplinary team is stronger and more connected. Thank you to the entire team for the dedication, empathy, and advocacy they bring each day. Their work truly makes a difference.
Thank you for allowing me to work with all of you, every single day. Alone we serve; together we change lives.”
Stories of Purpose, Compassion, and Impact
Behind every social worker is a unique journey—but a shared purpose: to care deeply and serve meaningfully.
A Calling That Finds You
Dakota Redwing, Social Service Director, Colby Health & Rehab
For many, social work isn’t just a career—it’s a calling.
“I didn’t choose social work, social work chose me. It’s where people experience major life transitions. It’s not just about medical care—it’s about preserving dignity, supporting families, and helping residents navigate uncertainty with stability and respect.”
Dakota highlights a truth that defines the profession: the most meaningful outcomes often happen beyond clinical care.
“The most rewarding part is seeing progress beyond the clinical—when fear turns into trust, when families feel supported, and when residents regain confidence.”
Honoring Every Life Story
Kay Cassella, Social Service Director, Onaga Health & Rehab
Every resident enters long-term care with a lifetime of experiences, memories, and identity. Social workers ensure those stories continue to be honored.
“Long-term care is the next chapter in older adults’ life. I help to bring their social history back to life. Life is a journey every day, not the goal to the very end.”
Kay also plays a vital role in helping families navigate complex systems:
“Keeping up with Medicare and Medicaid changes and help ‘decode’ the chaos to possible recipients.”
Her work reminds us that advocacy isn’t just emotional—it’s practical, guiding families through processes that can feel overwhelming.
Purpose Found in Unexpected Moments
Davina Stewart, Social Service Director, McPherson Health & Rehab
Sometimes, the path to purpose comes through life’s unexpected turns.
“That moment changed everything for me… while my path here wasn’t planned, it was purposeful. Sometimes the best chapters begin with a plot twist you never saw coming.”
Davina’s story reflects the resilience and adaptability that define social workers—and the deep fulfillment that comes from building meaningful connections with residents and families.
Celebrating Success and Independence
Jaidyn Utz, Social Service Designee, El Dorado Care & Rehab
Amid the challenges, social workers also witness some of the most joyful outcomes—moments of healing and independence.
“The most rewarding part of working in skilled/LTC is seeing residents come in for rehabilitation and rebuild their strength and tolerance, and being able to go home.”
These moments of success are shared victories—made possible by collaboration, dedication, and compassionate care.
A Profession That Changes Lives
Every day, social workers create spaces where residents feel valued, families feel supported, and care teams feel connected. Their impact may not always be visible—but it is always felt.
As we celebrate Social Worker Month and World Social Work Day, we honor the dedication, empathy, and advocacy these professionals bring to every interaction.
They are listeners, problem-solvers, advocates, and healers of the human spirit.
To Our Social Workers
Thank you for the lives you touch, the families you guide, and the dignity you protect.
You are the heart of skilled nursing—and your work truly changes lives.
